June: Celebrating 100 Years of Biodynamic Gardening - Key Plants and Preparations
This summer, we celebrate 100 years of biodynamic gardening. It was in June 1920 when Rudolf Steiner first shared his holistic approach to farming.
What is Biodynamic Gardening?
Biodynamics is a holistic approach to gardening that incorporates the principles of organic gardening while considering the natural cycles of nature. It involves the use of biodynamic preparations, which are vitalizing additions for soil and plants. These preparations act as remedies for the earth, promoting plant growth and quality. They are created by combining plant and mineral substances, exposing them to natural forces, and then returning them to nature in a modified form.
Benefits of Biodynamic Preparations
Biodynamic preparations bring plants into a dynamic relationship with soil, water, air, warmth, and the cosmos. This helps plants develop healthily and access the full spectrum of nutrients they need, making them more resilient to pests, diseases, and extreme climate conditions.
To learn how to make vegetarian plant preparations read this relevant article.
For details about the traditional way of making preparations read this biodynamic preparations manual by Demeter.
And if you are looking for flowers and plants that give off a fragrance and bloom at night for your Midsummer Night Garden, read this botaniq article.
Key Plants Used in Biodynamic Preparations
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Yarrow remedies weaknesses in flowering and fruiting, strengthens plants against insect attacks, and attracts beneficial insects like ladybirds. This preparation enhances the compost's vitality, enriching the soil.
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
Chamomile stimulates calcium processes in relation to sulfur. It contains homeopathic sulfur, which helps keep plants healthy by warding off the harmful effects of fruitification. When added to compost, it stabilizes nitrogen content, stimulating soil and plant growth.
Dandelion (Taraxacum vulgare)
Dandelion contains silicic acid, drawing in cosmic influences. It transfers the potassium-silica relationship to the compost, helping soil attract silica from the cosmos. This sensitizes plants to their environment, enabling them to attract the nutrients they need.
Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Nettle influences potassium, calcium, sulfur, and iron activities in the soil. It makes the compost heap sensitive and receptive, helping the soil develop an intelligence to accommodate growing plants.
Oak Bark (Quercus robur)
Oak bark, high in calcium, acts as a mediator between plants and the living earth. It stimulates calcium processes, preventing plant diseases and promoting healthy growth.
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
Valerian helps compost attract phosphorus-activating bacteria within the soil. It offers frost protection, stimulates flowering, and attracts beneficial insects, such as bees.
Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)
When mixed with water and used as a spray, horsetail strengthens plants against fungal diseases and can clear mildew on fruit.
Biodynamic gardening is not just about growing plants but fostering a healthy, balanced relationship between soil, plants, and the cosmos. By using biodynamic preparations, we can create a vibrant, resilient garden that thrives naturally.
Celebrate the centennial of biodynamic gardening by incorporating these preparations into your garden this summer!
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